Archive for February, 2009

The Literal Temple of Beer

Friday, February 20th, 2009

Oh come on now, this is getting ridiculous!

monkA group of Buddhist monks in Thailand have built a temple from one and a half million beer bottles. It is composed of 20 buildings, including a crematorium, water tower, and monks’ quarters. Some great photos are here.

I just don’t know what to say. It’s too beautiful.

Newcastle in a can?

Saturday, February 7th, 2009

Newcastle Brown AleYes, it is true, straight out of Pineapple Express. I’m excited cause it means I can have this decent brown without the skunk flavor that pervades the bottled version.

From Scottish & Newcastle, Newcastle pours a ruddy brown, quite clear, with a bit of creamy tan head. The nose is fairly malty, with notes of caramel and toast. There is a prominent cooked corn sweetness to the aroma, indicating dimethyl sulfide(DMS). Some consider this an integral part of the character of certain beers, but I’d call it a flaw.

The flavor is strongly corny, with a bit of malt in the background and prominent sweetness. There is just a hint of dark malt character coming off as a bit of roastiness. The palate is smooth and creamy, almost satiny.

-Newcastle Brown Ale

2.9 (3-6-5-4-11)